Outline

Reconstructive transplantation represents an emerging field at the intersection of plastic and transplant surgery. Due to the adverse effects of immunosuppressive regimens and ethical issues reconstructive transplantation remains a therapeutic option in selected cases of complex defects. Alternative approaches such as tissue engineering are currently limited and are subject to on-going development. Meanwhile, improving outcomes, reducing immunosuppressants, and inducing tolerance are the major objectives in this novel field. Largely based on the experience of solid organ transplantation, the composition of various tissue types in reconstructive transplantation exhibits different immunological properties thus posing new challenges. Animal models are essential tools for enhanced understanding of the pathophysiology of ischemia-reperfusion injury and allorejection and may facilitate the development of novel treatment strategies. This presentation provides an overview of feasible preclinical models for reconstructive transplantation and their relevance to clinical practice.